Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour

The Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Leiden region. With its iconic windmills and serene polders, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the rich engineering history that has shaped the Netherlands. Accessible to all, the tour combines moderate physical activity with captivating historical insights, providing a well-rounded experience for both seasoned travelers and those new to the area. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience that have defined the Dutch countryside.

Good To Know

• Immersive tour exploring iconic Dutch windmills and picturesque polder landscapes in the Leiden region, with a duration of approximately 9 hours.
• Accessible tour suitable for wheelchair users, stroller users, and those with service animals, with moderate physical fitness required.
• Tour departs from the Zwartemeerlaan bus stop in Leiden, with an alternative pickup location at Akkerhoornbloem 14, Leiden.
• Tour operates on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with flexible scheduling to accommodate early risers and afternoon visitors.
• Highly rated 5.0-star tour, with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, picturesque scenery, and accessibility features.

Tour Overview

The Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the iconic windmills and stunning polders (reclaimed land) of the Leiden region.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 8 reviewers, this tour takes you on a journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands.

With a duration that varies based on the local provider’s schedule, the tour provides bottled water and includes all fees and taxes.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes strollers and service animals.

Guests should have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience.

Inclusions and Accessibility

Each participant receives a 500 ml bottle of bottled water as part of the tour. All fees and taxes are included in the price. The tour is wheelchair accessible, with transportation and surfaces accommodating those with mobility needs. Strollers and service animals are also allowed. A moderate level of physical fitness is required to participate in the walking aspects of the tour.

Inclusions	Accessibility
Bottled water	Wheelchair accessible
All fees and taxes	Stroller and service animals allowed
	Moderate physical fitness required

Meeting and Pickup Details

Where does the tour begin?

The tour starts at the Zwartemeerlaan bus stop in Leiden, which is about 10-15 minutes away from Leiden central station.

Take bus 4 or 3 towards Merenwijk to get there. Alternatively, you can meet the group at the Akkerhoornbloem 14 location in Leiden.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to confirm the exact pickup time with the local provider in advance.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and service animals are allowed.

Operating Hours

Available from 4/6/2023 to 8/8/2025, this walking tour operates on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 08:30 AM to 05:30 PM.

Guests can take advantage of this schedule to enjoy the Dutch windmills and polders at their leisure. The tour runs for approximately 9 hours each day, providing ample time to explore the scenic countryside.

Whether you prefer an early start or a leisurely afternoon, the tour’s operating hours cater to a range of preferences. With a reliable schedule, travelers can easily plan their visit and make the most of this immersive experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is received at the time of booking. Customers have the flexibility to cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the experience starts, with no penalties.

This free cancellation policy provides peace of mind for travelers. The tour also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing customers to secure their spot without making an immediate payment.

Private tours are available, ensuring that only your group participates. The booking and cancellation policy reflects the provider’s commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility, making it easy for visitors to plan their Dutch windmill adventure.

Reviews

The tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from all 8 reviewers. Verified by Viator and Tripadvisor, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the knowledgeable guides, picturesque scenery, and overall exceptional experience.

Guests highlight the tour’s accessibility, noting the wheelchair-friendly transportation and surfaces. Many also appreciate the included bottled water and moderate physical demands.

Several reviewers recommend the tour as a must-do activity for visitors to Leiden, emphasizing its ability to provide a unique glimpse into Dutch culture and history.

With no lower ratings, the Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour is a top-rated choice for those seeking an immersive and memorable exploration of the Netherlands’ iconic landmarks.

Getting to the Pickup Point

To reach the pickup point, travelers can take a bus from Leiden central station. They should board bus 4 or 3 towards Merenwijk, and the Zwartemeerlaan bus stop is about 10-15 minutes away.

Alternatively, they can go to the other meeting point at Akkerhoornbloem 14, 2317 KP Leiden, Netherlands.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point.

Detailed instructions and directions are provided to ensure a smooth start to the Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour experience.

About the Destination

Although the tour focuses on visiting Dutch windmills, the scenic polder landscapes surrounding Leiden also play a prominent role in the experience. These unique flat wetlands, formed by drained lakes, offer a picturesque backdrop as you explore the area’s rich history and engineering marvels. The tour takes you through this tranquil countryside, allowing you to appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and human ingenuity that characterizes the Netherlands.

Polder Landscape Features
Flat Terrain	Drainage Canals	Lush Vegetation	Livestock Grazing	Quaint Villages

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Windmills Can We Expect to See?

You can expect to see a variety of traditional Dutch windmills on this tour, including wooden post mills, brick tower mills, and historic windmills that were used for draining polders and powering industries like sawmills and grain mills.

How Many Kilometers Will We Cover During the Walk?

The tour covers around 8-10 kilometers of walking through the scenic Dutch countryside. Participants can expect to see a variety of traditional windmills and explore the unique polder landscape during this moderately paced walking tour.

Is There an Opportunity to Take Photographs During the Tour?

The tour provides ample opportunities to capture photographs. Participants can take pictures of the picturesque Dutch windmills, serene polders, and other scenic landscapes encountered during the walking portion of the experience.

Can We Stop for a Traditional Dutch Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a stop for a traditional Dutch lunch. However, participants are free to explore local dining options at their own expense and convenience before or after the scheduled tour activities.

Are There Any Unique Local Traditions or Customs We’ll Experience?

This tour offers a unique insight into traditional Dutch customs. Guests can expect to learn about the historic windmill engineering and see the iconic polders, showcasing the Netherlands’ renowned land reclamation techniques. Local flavors and cultural experiences may also be incorporated.

The Sum Up

The Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour offers an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Leiden region. Combining scenic beauty, rich history, and accessible features, this highly-rated tour provides an immersive experience for all. Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure or a peaceful stroll, this nine-hour tour is sure to captivate and leave you with lasting memories of the iconic windmills and serene polders.